WARNING: Parents and children advised to avoid this one activity during cold snap

Water Safety Ireland have issued a warning to the public as weekend walkers will be at risk if they stand on ice at lakes, canals, and rivers. Partly frozen water bodies may appear solid but pose a significant danger, and parents are asked to caution their children against walking on or playing on ice.

Although conditions are expected to improve over the weekend, temperatures remain cold across the country and thin ice will remain a danger.

The Danger of Thin Ice Water Safety Ireland reminds the public to take the approach that "there is no such thing as safe ice." Partly frozen lakes, canals, and rivers may appear solid, but ice thickness can vary significantly due to currents, temperature changes, and other environmental factors.

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Ice can crack under the weight of a child or adult, plunging them into freezing water and risking hypothermia and drowning. Attempting to rescue another person or a pet from ice is equally dangerous and can lead to further tragedy.

Advice to Parents Children are naturally curious and may be drawn to playing on ice. To keep them safe, Water Safety Ireland advises parents and guardians to:

• Teach children to never go onto the ice under any circumstances.
• Supervise children closely when near partly frozen water bodies.
• Keep pets on leads near ice and avoid throwing toys or sticks onto frozen surfaces.

What to Do in an Emergency If someone falls through ice:

• Call 112 or 999 immediately.
• Do not attempt to rescue them by going onto the ice yourself, as you risk falling in.
• Use a ringbuoy or long object like a branch, rope, or pole to extend your reach and assist from solid ground.
• Keep reassuring them until help arrives.

Be Informed Water Safety Ireland emphasises that ice-related drownings often occur when rescuers attempt to save others without proper equipment or knowledge. Pets can often scramble to safety on their own, but their owners may not.

Ice can be dangerously thin in some areas, even if it appears thick elsewhere.

Safety Tips for the Season Water Safety Ireland encourages everyone to educate their families about the dangers. By staying vigilant and taking precautions, we can all help prevent tragedies this winter.

Be Winter Ready at https://watersafety.ie/wintersafety/